How to Decorate Around a Wall Fireplace
A fireplace in the wall can be your living room an attractive focal point that requires attention. There are a variety of models available however, it is important to find one that will meet your requirements.
The heat output, the controls, Stone Fireplaces and the design are some of the most important features. If you aren't familiar with these features, it's best to hire a professional to help you pick the right model.
Molded Squares
This living room needed an impressive fireplace overhaul due to its outdated stone surround and bland walls. With a few design tweaks the new look is vibrant and eye-catching, making the hearth a central feature in the room. A whitewashed mantel and modern artwork above modernize the fireplace facade while contrasted with the shelves in gray below. A few minor changes in color can also help the fireplace stand apart from the wall, which enhances the beauty of this fireplace design.
Base cap moldings and thin trim pieces are combined to make a simple but efficient way to frame a tile fireplace surround. To tie the look together select a trim design to contrast or match the other trim elements, such as thick casing around windows and doors. If you're looking for an elegant, high-end look, you can consider using fluted trim on the sides of the fireplace to create the illusion of a real mantel. For a more rustic farmhouse look, choose to use dentil trim instead.
Creating an accent wall with wainscoting is an effective method to add character to any room. The same method can be used to frame the fireplace. Try a paneled product such as tongue-and-groove cedar siding or beadboard instead of plank boards to create a dramatic effect.
Another non-combustible option you can use to build a fireplace surround is brick, which is available in many different styles and colors. A classic red brick fireplace is perfect for Craft Revival or Cottage-style homes. A rustic-look brick can also be used to add a rustic touch to a traditional decor.
If you want to incorporate brick into the design of your tabletop fireplace, make sure that your hearth is 16 to 18 inches away from the opening of the firebox, and your surround is between 8 and 12 inches wide in all directions. Make sure the material you choose is compliant with all building codes to ensure safety.
Open shelves are a great way to store books and other things, but too many can take over the appearance of the fireplace. In this family room, homeowners built a wall-to ceiling limestone cladding that enhances the design of the new fireplace without overwhelming the open shelving.
Rustic Wood Beam
Rustic reclaimed wooden beams are the ideal frame for a wall fireplace. They add a timeless look to any house. Reclaimed beams of wood are made from old barns, stalls, and other buildings that were removed. Each beam is unique and has its own unique history. Reclaimed wood can also be used as a feature in modern kitchens, or with wide planks to give a rustic look. They feature the typical marks of barn wood, like nail holes and mortise pockets and natural patinas that increase their durability.
Look through salvage yards for architectural salvage and flea market for reclaimed wood elements to make into a fireplace. The earthy tone of pine used to accent the traditional living room surround and mantel evokes the feeling of a cozy country getaway. The knotty imperfections of the wood create a rustic appearance and are a perfect match for the simple lines in the beaded-board wainscoting that is on the fireplace wall. A pair of nature-inspired sconces and a landscape-themed painting above the mantel add to the rustic charm of this space.
Repurposed wood beams can be an attractive feature to any room in your home. They can be left as-is or stained to complement the decor of your home, or they can be cut and distressed to create an antique appearance. They can also be painted to give an updated look or covered with faux finishes such as marbled paint or rust.
Wooden beams can serve as a focal point in any kind of fireplace. They can be set above a freestanding gas, electric firesuite or ventless fireplace or incorporated into a brick or stone fireplace. They can be used to illuminate the mantel, without burning fire.
Whichever method you choose to install your beams, ensure that they are adequately protected against the effects of fire. Both materials are susceptible to becoming hard and brittle when heated to extreme temperatures. However they can be strengthened by a layer of fire-resistant drywall. These products can be found at a variety of stores for home improvement.
White Hexagon Tile
Hexagon tiles can be used to create a dramatic effect as a surround for a fireplace. Its shape instantly brightens up the space and is a perfect match for any decor, whether modern or traditional. Selecting a matte finish for the tiles is a great way to keep that sleek and polished look while adding some contrast that makes the fireplace pop.
Hex tiles also work well with different textures for a more personalized look. Stone-look tiles are a very popular option that give the room a rustic, classic feel. They also go well with natural materials such as wood. Another classic option is marble-look tile that adds an elegant and luxurious look to the space. These tiles feature a glossy and smooth finish that is a beautiful reflection of light and enhances the space.
The proper tile pattern can enhance a fireplace's design. For example, the ribbed tile on this fireplace by @lorenapulichinodesign creates an interesting visual element that pairs beautifully with the smooth, thick mantel. The patterned tile gives the entire room a the look of a hand-crafted piece that balances the contemporary organic style of the fireplace and the contemporary style of the room.
If you're not sure about taking a risk with a pattern in your home the fireplace is a great place to experiment with the bold style. It can be intimidating for other areas. This geometric tile (here's another option) with its black grout lines give this space a sophisticated yet lively energy. The hexagonal shapes work as cubes to create an exciting layout, while the dark brown color provides an inviting and warm aesthetic that is a perfect match for the industrial décor in this room.
Tiles that resemble brick or other familiar materials is another option to create an impact on your fireplace. This texture tile from LA Designer Affair has a similar look to brick, but is much simpler to clean and maintain.
Consider using a peel-and-stick tile to modernize your fireplace surround without costing you a dime. These options are heat-resistant which makes them suitable for ethanol fireplaces and can adhere to existing surfaces. This herringbone peel and stick tile is an excellent alternative that will add a sense of elegance to any living space while also blending beautifully with traditional furniture.
Paint the Mantel
A fresh coat of paint is the best method to cover the brick surround of a wall-mounted fireplace. The mantel can be painted in a different color to add warmth and personality. A new color of paint can make your fireplace stand out. You can match it with the overall color scheme of the room or choose something bold.
If your mantel is wood take a look at it to find gouges, cracks, and scratches. Fill in the dents using wood putty if they're small enough. Allow it to dry for the amount of time recommended. Before painting you can sand the surface 100-grit sandpaper in order to rough it up. To get rid of any dirt or debris, wipe down the surfaces that have been sanded with a damp cloth.
While white is a popular color for walls and Fireplaces Electric, the right shade can really help your mantel stand out. For inspiration, take a look at the wood trims on your bookcases, mouldings and walls. Does your mantel have the same shade as theirs or is it darker or lighter? If you decide to go with the latter option, pick a color that will work well with the other shades in the room to ensure it looks balanced.
Before you start painting, protect the area around you with a drop cloth or sheets. Remove any decorations or showpieces that might have been placed over the mantel. Remove any ornaments or photos that are around or on your brick fireplace. When the mantel is clean and clean, wipe it with a the help of a damp cloth to wipe off any dust or soot that has accumulated.
Apply a basecoat using the brush or roller to your mantel. The semi-gloss paint is long-lasting and stain resistant, so your mantel will be able to stand up to the heat of the fireplace, and any other items placed on it. Let the primer dry according to the guidelines of the manufacturer before moving on to the main body of your fireplace's wall.
While brick is a striking feature of a fireplace's wall it can be heavy and dark in shade. Painting the mantel in a neutral or light shade can make it appear brighter and more inviting for guests. If you decide to go with a light hue, think about using it in conjunction with an earthy toned piece of artwork or a large mirror above it to balance the appearance.